Write Real People

When I started writing The Source, I initially planned to follow the classic single-hero journey; one young man going on a journey and transforming through trials.

Then I realized I could create richer development by tracking two protagonists simultaneously. Their contrasting responses to the same challenges created more opportunities for growth, conflict, and compelling character dynamics.

Single Hero Strategy

Why it works:

• Clear focus on one character’s transformation arc
• Easier to track character development and maintain consistency
• Follows the proven heroic journey framework readers expect
• Allows deep dive into a single perspective and internal journey

This works for writers who want to explore one character’s growth in intimate detail and maintain tight narrative focus.

Follow the classic pattern of ordinary person meeting extraordinary challenge. Track their evolution from inexperienced to heroic through trials, failures, and ultimate transformation.

Dual Protagonist Strategy

Two heroes developing together beat one hero developing alone.

When you track interweaving storylines of contrasting protagonists, you create opportunities for different responses to identical challenges, highlighting growth through comparison and conflict.

Why it works:

• Provides contrasting perspectives that illuminate character traits
• Creates natural tension through different approaches to problems
• Allows characters to support and challenge each other’s development
• Generates more complex relationship dynamics and plot possibilities

Write protagonists with complementary strengths and weaknesses: one strategic and intellectual, another intuitive and heart-driven. Let their relationship evolve as they face adversity together, each character’s journey highlighting the other’s growth.

Hybrid Approach

Most successful fantasy writers start with a primary hero, then develop strong secondary characters who become co-protagonists over time.

Begin with clear main character focus, then gradually elevate supporting characters to protagonist status as their development becomes equally important to the story.

Follow your story’s scope:

• Intimate character study? → Single hero for deep psychological exploration
• Epic adventure with complex conflicts? → Dual protagonists for multiple perspectives
• Long series? → Start single, develop dual protagonists across multiple books

Both single heroes and dual protagonists can create powerful transformation stories. 

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